Dempo SC had an unforgettable season last summer and the rejuvenated side is poised for a strong start in the city derby against the local rivals, with the arrival of an all-new technical team at the club headed by Technical Director, Katz Naidoo. “It’s a big game for both teams and knowing the status of the tournament, I think Dempo on their side have done a fair amount of work to take on this challenge,” said Naidoo. “Both the teams are well balanced and I would like to be positive of the outcome if this result is in Dempo’s favour,” he concluded.

With many new faces and some departed there is stability at the core that few can now match, and opponents underestimate the club’s strength at their peril. Kapil Hoble, Aaron Rodrigues, Vinent Bugde and Jason Lucas being regulars in the senior squad, the quartet will look to boost the team’s morale with their experience and exposure.

Dempo SC U-18 coach Anthony De Souza along with assistant coach Marcelino Pereira have been working with the squad moulding and shaping it for the last three months and are looking forward to a good season. “The preparations are going according to our plans and the boys are eager to play. They are just raring to go,” said Anthony De Souza. The former SESA academy coach stressed that he would take each game at a time, knowing the competition level and the teams participating in the tournament.

On Tuesday, Sporting will test the new-look Dempo SC, with coach Anthony and his assistant Marcelino hoping to get off to a good start!